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Interconnections for South-West Europe

Interconnections for South-West Europe

In order to enhance the integration of the Iberian Peninsula energy markets with the rest of Europe, a regional High Level Group for South-West Europe on interconnections was set up in 2015.

The overall objective of the High Level Group is to ensure regular monitoring of the progress of the key infrastructure projects identified in the Madrid Declaration. It also aims to provide adequate support to avoid potential delays in the implementation of the projects.

The establishment of the High Level Group follows the signing of the Madrid Declaration on 4 March 2015 by the President of France, the Prime Minister of Spain, the Prime Minister of Portugal and the President of the European Commission. The Memorandum of Understanding establishing the High Level Group was signed on 30 June 2015 in Paris. The High Level Group includes representatives from the European Commission as well as from ministries, transmission system operators, and national regulatory authorities in France, Spain, and Portugal.

The Implementation plan of the Madrid Declaration was adopted to ensure that key projects will be swiftly implemented. This Plan is a long-term strategy which will be regularly updated in accordance with the results of the work of the High Level Group.

Integrating the Iberian Peninsula

Objectives of the High Level Group on Interconnections for South-West Europe:

raise the capacity of electricity exchanges between Spain and France to 8000 MW in 2020

carry out assessments in order to complete the Eastern Gas Axis between Portugal, Spain and France

ensure that the projects identified in the Madrid Declaration are implemented in a timely manner.